In the world of football, few accolades shine as brightly as the prestigious Ballon d’Or, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s journey through the years has been nothing short of remarkable. With the 2023 Ballon d’Or set to proceed without his presence, we take a closer look at the career of the Portugal star, celebrating his past trophy wins and incredible consistency.
A Year to Remember: Ronaldo’s Debut in Ballon d’Or History
The year was 2008, and Cristiano Ronaldo was establishing himself as a world-class talent during his time at Manchester United. His performances throughout the 2007/08 Premier League and the 2007/08 Champions League left an indelible mark on the football world, earning him his first Ballon d’Or.
However, the road to further glory was not without its challenges. For the next five years, Ronaldo played second fiddle to his rival, Lionel Messi, who dominated the Ballon d’Or from 2009 to 2012. The football world watched in awe as the two titans battled for supremacy on the pitch.
A Spanish Sojourn: Ronaldo’s Dominance in Madrid
In 2013, Cristiano Ronaldo embarked on a new chapter in his career, joining Real Madrid. This move marked the beginning of a spectacular era in the Ballon d’Or history books. Over the next five years, Ronaldo won the coveted trophy four times, from 2013 to 2017, firmly establishing himself as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
His incredible contributions to the club, including achievements in the 2013/14 Copa del Rey, 2013/14 Champions League, 2014 UEFA Super Cup, and the 2014 FIFA Club World Cup, contributed to his Ballon d’Or successes during his time in Madrid.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Ballon d’Or Triumphs: A Recap
2008: Manchester United – Trophies won: 2007/08 Premier League, 2007/08 Champions League
2013: Real Madrid
2014: Real Madrid – Trophies won: 2013/14 Copa del Rey, 2013/14 Champions League, 2014 UEFA Super Cup, 2014 FIFA Club World Cup
2016: Real Madrid – Trophies won: 2015/16 Champions League, 2016 FIFA Club World Cup
2017: Real Madrid – Trophies won: 2016/17 La Liga, 2017 Supercopa de España, 2016/17 Champions League, 2017 UEFA Super Cup, 2017 FIFA Club World Cup
The Legacy and the Chase for Excellence
Cristiano Ronaldo may be absent from the 2023 Ballon d’Or shortlist, but his journey through the years is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence. As the second most successful player in Ballon d’Or history, with five titles, he stands shoulder to shoulder with his longtime rival, Lionel Messi, who holds seven awards.
While the Argentine is the favorite to secure an eighth gong in 2023, Ronaldo’s legacy remains an indomitable force in the world of football. His extraordinary achievements and perseverance are etched in the annals of history, and his fans continue to watch with bated breath, wondering if there are more chapters left to be written in his remarkable career.
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